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A DUI checkpoint can stress you out and lead to mistakes

On behalf of Law Firm on Wednesday, September 26, 2018.

You're driving down the road, not expecting to run into any trouble, when you suddenly see a DUI checkpoint ahead. Maybe you have had too much to drink. Or maybe you consumed one alcoholic beverage in the last couple of hours. Regardless, the stress is sure to overcome you as you wait your turn.

Making an illegal U-turn: You're so set on the idea that talking to an officer will result in trouble that you look for any way out. Soon enough, you decide to make a U-turn and drive in the opposite direction. You're permitted to turn around, but you must do so within the limits of the law.

Talking back to the officer: Even if you feel like the officer is treating you poorly, it's best to go with the flow with the idea of making your way through the checkpoint without trouble.

Erratic driving: You don't want to start and stop quickly, drift out of your lane of travel or do anything else that makes you appear intoxicated. Any form of erratic driving is likely to make you stick out like a sore thumb, and that's not what you need at a DUI checkpoint.

Leaving alcohol in plain view: Even if it's a closed bottle of alcohol, you don't want it sitting on your passenger seat. This gives authorities the impression that you've been drinking, thus causing them to dig around even more.

Complaining about your legal rights: "You don't have the right to stop my vehicle." "You can't talk to me like that." "I don't have to listen to anything you're saying right now." All of these complaints only make things worse for you. DUI checkpoints are 100 percent legal, so don't lecture the officer.

There's always a chance you could run into trouble at a DUI checkpoint. If you're arrested, think twice before saying anything that could cause more difficulties as your case moves through the court system.

Instead, learn more about your charges and then focus on the DUI defense strategy that puts you in the best position to avoid a conviction.